We realize that November has just started. However, business owners everywhere surely realize that with the start of November comes the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Restaurant owners know this all too well. This is the time of year when reservations increase in both party size and frequency. Who doesn’t love to enjoy the holiday season by dining out?
As restaurateur, you can’t just assume that business will pick up. It’s wise to take steps to set your eatery apart from others during this busy time of year. What can you do to make your restaurant a holiday celebration destination?
Deck the halls of your restaurant.
Arguably, a “no brainer” suggestion, you should make your eatery an extremely festive-looking environment. It’s hard to deny that the holiday spirit can be invigorated by bright and colourful decorations. As WebstaurantStore.com points out, decorating your restaurant for the holidays is a great way to attract walk-in customers.
“Windows and doors adorned with Christmas lights, wreaths, and ornaments capture the attention of passerby,” affirms the website, “Bringing the decorations into your dining room and ordering counter creates a warm and inviting interior. Whether your customers are dining in or grabbing a meal to go, holiday decor will lift their mood. A positive seasonal experience will encourage repeat business year-round.”
Make your menu festive.
You can’t create a festive environment without having your menu catered towards holiday eats. Arguably, food is the most popular aspect of any holiday occasion. Re-theme your menu items to include holiday-based items. Cait Carter of Constant Contact reminds us of the Santa Burger which was offered up by the fictional Luke’s Diner in the show, “Gilmore Girls”. It was made to help the character of Lorelai Gilmore cheer up during the holiday season.
“You never know what people are going through during the holidays,” says Carter, “Whether they’ve been uninvited from a family event, are celebrating the holidays alone, or are looking for a way to make their day a little more exciting, festive holiday menu specials, take-out options, and catering options can make your patrons feel special.”
Give a gift with every purchase.
‘Tis the season of giving after all, is it not? You would be hard pressed to find anyone who doesn’t enjoy receiving something for free. By offering gifts alongside your meals, this holiday season, you will easily boost customer satisfaction. One of the top benefits of offering up gifts is the repeat business it will encourage.
“It may seem counterintuitive to give something away when customers purchase from your restaurant,” acknowledges Carter, “But the holidays are a time of giving. Providing your customers with a special holiday gift when they visit your restaurant may be just the thing to get them excited to come through the door.”
Is your restaurant’s menu online?
Take advantage of Unity Payments’ complete online ordering software solution. With it, you can easily set up your menu, make live menu updates, manage inventory, process takeout and delivery requests, schedule pick-ups, create promo codes and more! For more information, please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-800-661-3761 or email us at info@unitypayments.ca.
